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[Kirkland]

"A residents' representative on the panel tackling problems at Map Ta Phut industrial estate is threatening to quit unless the panel does more to protect the local people's interests.

Sutthi Atchasai said yesterday he would give the panel - which was set up to address problems arising from the freezing of construction of industrial plants at the estate because of environmental and health concerns - until the end of next month to make it clear how it would tackle pollution problems based on residents' interests, or he would resign.

"The panel has been addressing problems based on the industrial sector's interests, rather than those of residents," Mr Sutthi said."I want to see more sincerity from the panel about solving our problems."

The panel, chaired by former prime minister Anand Panyarachun, has made little progress on measures to clean up pollution in the area and on drawing up new city planning regulations.It has spent most of its time working on the selection process for an independent body required by the constitution.

Mr Sutthi is among environmental activists who filed a case with the Administration Court last September calling for the suspension of work on industrial projects at the estate in Rayong.They asked that the projects be suspended after they failed to comply with procedures under the constitution. The constitution requires that an independent body be set up to oversee health and environment assessments arising from new industrial projects."

http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/local/3497...-member-revolts

[TheYenta]

I hate to say it but - why am I not surprised. Poor people and the environment always seem to take it in the neck in this country. It's depressing.